Wildlife Safari Tips & Tricks

Planning on going on a wildlife safari? No amount of watching Animal Planet or the Discovery Chanel is going to get you ready for actual wild encounters! Although going on a safari in Africa or exploring the jungles of Sri Lanka and India or going on an Australian Outback escapade features on almost every wilderness lover’s wishlist, there are a few precautions and preventive steps that one needs to take to be in proximity to the wild animals. Here are a few safari tips & tricks to help you stay safe in adjacency to the animals:

Don’t go near or touch an animal:

It is not advised to approach wild animals, no matter how tame or calm they appear. Remember that these animals aren't like regular pets, they are not used to being around humans all the time. If you approach them or try to touch them, they might attack you or bite you in self defence. And always keep in mind that the boundaries within the sanctuary are for you, not for the animals. Stay within the limits.

Don’t try to feed the wild animals:

No matter what, do not try to feed the wild animals. Infact, many national parks and wildlife reserves don’t allow food to be carried on safaris. Even if the animal looks famished and malnourished, stay away!

Don’t run!

If you are on a walking trail or are camping out in the wilderness and if a wild animal approaches you, be cautious and alert and, at any cost, do not run or make a sudden movement. It is one of the instructions given to you when you sign up for a walking tour. In most cases, the animal will go away after a while. Don’t alienate yourself; always move in groups.

Give passage of right to the animals:

Keep in mind that you are in the animals’ natural habitat, not vice versa. You are a guest in the wildlife sanctuary and you should behave like one. Respect their space and always give passage of right to the animals. The wild animals are in reality quite shy and do their best to avoid human contact. They will stay out of your path most of the times.

Trust your guide:

Your safari guides are wildlife experts. They have studied animal behaviour and are familiar with animal mannerism and patterns. They know what to expect out there in the wild. Always trust them and their instincts. If they cancel the safari or cut it short for some reason, be assured that it is for your own good.

Keep the noise levels low:

Refrain from talking loudly. The quieter the environment, the better the animal sightings. Wild animals become aware of human presence and move away into deeper parts of their habitat. The less noisy you are, the better are your chances of coming across the animals in their full glory. Don’t you want to capture stunning memories in your camera?

No littering:

Remember when we said you are a guest at the animals’ natural habitat? Why ruin their home by littering? Keep the environment clean and refrain from throwing garbage. Carry a spare bag where you can dump all your waste and later empty it into a trash can.

Following these simple rules will help you in enjoying your wilderness retreat. Are you planning on going to Africa for a thrilling wildlife sanctuary safari? Book your hotels using our incredible hotel booking feature. After coming back, do let us know how your encounter with the wild went.